Bangladesh's garment industry suffered an estimated production loss of around $400 million due to the recent workers’ unrest in September and October in Savar, Ashulia, and Gazipur. Besides, some work orders were diverted to competing countries due to concerns over the law and order situation, said Bangladesh Garment Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BGMEA) president Khandokar Rafiqul Islam at a press conference at the BGMEA complex on Saturday. "We have fallen somewhat behind. In August, imports of US apparel increased by 1.5%. However, imports from Bangladesh decreased by 3.8%. Imports from China rose by 3.6%, Vietnam by 5.2%, India by 7.6%, and Cambodia by 7.7%,” he said. From January to July in Europe, imports increased by 3.3%, while those from Bangladesh grew by only 2.8%. In contrast, imports from India rose by 5.18%, Cambodia by 18.35%, and Vietnam by 12.61%. BGMEA seeks Tk 54cr soft loan for 39 struggling garment factories This data indicates that Bangladesh is significantly lagging in export growth compared to other countries, he said. However, the garment industry has successfully achieved stability after passing the challenging period, said Rafiqul Islam. He said collaboration among the government, owners, workers, the Bangladesh Army, and law enforcement agencies enabled the BGMEA board to tackle the adverse situation effectively. Rafiqul Islam said Bangladesh's garment sector is regaining buyers’ trust. A joint task force, led by the army, was established to ensure the security of garment factories, regularly patrolling garment-dense areas, he said adding that the BGMEA, with military support, initiated community policing. Uncertainties were created regarding the payment of August salaries for garment factories. In response, BGMEA reached out Finance Adviser and met the governor of the central bank. Following BGMEA's request, Bangladesh Bank has directed banks to facilitate the payment of salaries for August, said BGMEA leaders. In response to a journalist's query, the BGMEA president said many factories are still facing risks, although he could not provide a specific number. Bangladesh now boasts 229 eco-friendly garment factories: BGMEA The BGMEA president mentioned that 39 garment factories affected by labour unrest in Ashulia were unable to pay salaries for September. BGMEA requested the Ministry of Finance to arrange for interest-free loans on easy terms to ensure salary payments for these factories. Furthermore, a programme was launched to sell essential commodities at fair prices to 40 lakh workers in the garment industry. On October 16, Labour and Employment Adviser Asif Mahmud inaugurated this initiative. The press conference also revealed that in response to BGMEA's request, the requirement for Fire Resistance Rating for steel structures in garment factories has been relaxed.

Bangladesh Garment Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BGMEA) has requested a Tk 54 crore soft loan from Bangladesh Bank to support 39 garment factories that are facing financial difficulties. These factories, which were previously operating smoothly, are now struggling to maintain full production due to disruptions caused by recent labor unrest. Bangladesh now boasts 229 eco-friendly garment factories: BGMEA BGMEA outlined these concerns in a letter to the Finance Adviser on October 6, urging the central bank to inspect the situation and facilitate the necessary loan. BGMEA has appealed to the interim government to help secure Tk 54 crore to ensure the timely payment of wages to around 56,000 workers employed at these 39 factories. The organization emphasized the urgent need for financial assistance to prevent further disruption in the industry and protect the livelihoods of thousands of workers.

In the first five months of 2024, Bangladesh's readymade garment (RMG) industry has achieved a significant milestone in sustainable fashion, with 12 factories earning LEED certification. LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) is a globally recognized green building rating system that emphasizes environmental responsibility and energy efficiency. This recent accomplishment brings Bangladesh's total to 218 LEED-certified green factories, underscoring the country's commitment to green initiatives within the garment sector, according to Bangladesh Garment Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BGMEA) Director Mohiuddin Rubel. RMG Sustainability Council holds meeting to discuss issues affecting industry Of the 218 certified factories, 84 have achieved the highest, platinum rating, 120 have earned gold, 10 silver, and 4 are certified, as reported by the BGMEA. In the first five months of 2024, eight of the newly certified factories received the platinum rating, while the remaining four were awarded gold. Notable performers include S.M. Sourcing with 106 points and Green Textiles Limited Unit 4 with 104 points. Other high scorers include Integra Dresses and Knit Asia Limited, both achieving 99 points, Remi Holdings Ltd with 97 points, and Fatullah Apparels, also scoring 97 points. Bangladesh’s achievement positions the country as a leader in the global sustainable fashion movement, with 56 out of the 100 LEED-certified green factories worldwide located here, according to BGMEA. This includes 9 of the top 10 and 18 of the top 20 LEED-certified factories globally, based on BGMEA data. RMG exports up by almost 5pc in FY 2023-24 The geographic distribution of these certifications within Bangladesh illustrates the RMG industry's widespread commitment to sustainability. By proactively achieving LEED ratings, Bangladesh's garments industry is setting a benchmark for environmental stewardship, positioning the country as a key player in the global push for more sustainable manufacturing practices.

The candidates of Sammilito Parishad for the upcoming BGMEA elections were formally introduced at the first panel introduction meeting held on Thursday at Hotel Radisson Blu in Dhaka. The election to the Bangladesh Garment Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BGMEA) for the 2024-2026 term will be held on March 9 this year. Sammilito Parishad is participating in the BGMEA election with the slogan ‘Sammilito Parishad for Building Sustainable Garment Industry.’ Owners of garment industries from Dhaka and Chattogram regions were present at the event. 13 exhibitors from Bangladesh participate in Texworld Apparel Sourcing in France The panel introduction programme was presided over by Tipu Munshi MP, former Commerce Minister, and President of Sammilito Parishad. At the event, Md. Atiqul Islam, General Secretary of Sammilito Parishad, and Mayor of Dhaka North City Corporation (DNCC), introduced the panel members of Sammilito Parishad, including the Panel Leader and Senior Vice President of BGMEA, S. M. Mannan Kochi, who is also the Chairman of Seha Design (BD) Ltd. Tipu Munshi MP, former Commerce Minister, and President of Sammilito Parishad, along with Md. Atiqul Islam, General Secretary of Sammilito Parishad and Mayor of Dhaka North City Corporation (DNCC), Md. Siddiqur Rahman, former President of BGMEA, Chief Election Coordinator of Sammilito Parishad for the BGMEA Election 2024-2026, and Industries and Trade Affairs Secretary of the Awami League, and former Presidents of BGMEA Abdus Salam Murshedy MP, and S.M. Fazlul Hoque along with other industry leaders, spoke at the panel introduction program. Indonesian Ambassador and BGMEA President discuss bilateral trade opportunities In their speeches, the leaders highlighted the glorious history, contributions, achievements, and future prospects of the Sammilito Parishad. They mentioned the significant contributions of S. M. Mannan (Kochi) to the development of the ready-made garment industry while mentioning his leadership qualities. The leaders also highlighted the important roles played by other candidates of the Sammilito Parishad panel in the development of the RMG industry. They also mentioned that crucial government policy decisions for the RMG industry’s development were made during the tenures of BGMEA Boards led by Sammilito Parishad. During these tenures, the Presidents along with former Presidents successfully dealt with the challenges of the industry through engagement with the highest level of the government. Alongside,they expressed firm belief that Sammilito Parishad, if elected, would continue the legacy of success. Innovation policy unveiled to overcome global challenges for textile and apparel industry S. M. Mannan (Kochi) said, "We have formed a panel comprising experienced and young leaders with the aim of ensuring sustainable development of the garment industry. If we win the election, we will all work together.” At the event, the leaders urged the BGMEA members to vote to elect the full panel of the Sammilito Parishad in the upcoming BGMEA election.

Faruque Hassan, President of the Bangladesh Garment Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BGMEA), held a meeting with representatives from the Singapore Ministry of Trade and Industry (MTI) and Enterprise Singapore (ESG). The meeting, held in Singapore on January 30, was attended by Francis Chong, Senior Director (Emerging Markets) MTI; Uma Muniandy, Deputy Director (Emerging Markets) MTI; Vann Ang, Senior Assistant Director (Emerging Markets) MTI; G. Jayakrishnan, Executive Director (South Asia, the Middle East, and Africa) at Enterprise Singapore. BGMEA requests Singapore port authority for faster, seamless transshipment of Bangladeshi RMG goods Asif Ashraf, Director, BGMEA, Shams Mahmud, Chair of BGMEA Standing Committee on Foreign Mission Cell, and Sanjay Kumar Naha, Director of Rose Intimates Ltd were also present at the meeting. Discussioncentreded around exploring potential avenues for enhancing trade and investment collaboration between Bangladesh and Singapore. They also discussed the free trade agreement (FTA) between the two countries and the mutual benefits that could be derived from such an agreement. FICCI leaders call on BIDA Chairman In the meeting, BGMEA President Faruque Hassan presented Bangladesh as an attractive destination for foreign investors, citing its growing infrastructure, specialized economic zones, and other investment-friendly facilities. Highlighting the increasing trend of investments from countries including Japan, Korea, and China in Bangladesh, he suggested that Singaporean investors consider exploring emerging sectors such as textile machinery, man-made fiber and technical textiles, recycling industry, light engineering, and shipbuilding. The BGMEA President stressed the importance of organizing reciprocal visits by businessmen from both countries to foster mutually beneficial trade and investment opportunities. Prothoma book fair held at Nagad’s head office He sought the cooperation of the Singapore Ministry of Trade and Industry in facilitating interactions between traders and investors from Bangladesh and Singapore. Faruque Hassan also underscored the potential of Singapore as a market for Bangladeshi garment exports and called for support in exploring market opportunities in the region.

Ambassador of Denmark to Bangladesh Christian Brix Møller on Sunday met BGMEA President Faruque Hassan at the BGMEA Complex in and discussed issues of mutual interest. Their discussions revolved around crucial issues related Bangladesh’s ready-made garments (RMG) industry, focusing on the current status, global market dynamics, challenges, and priorities for sustainable development. Sammilito Parishad accords warm reception to RMG entrepreneurs who elected MPs in 12th National elections The meeting also delved into the potential for enhanced collaboration between Denmark and Bangladesh, particularly in the areas of sustainability, circularity, and the integration of energy-efficient technologies within the garment industry. The meeting also touched upon the preparation of Bangladeshi RMG and textile companies for the upcoming EU Due Diligence, said the BGMEA. Sammilita Parishad starts election activities for BGMEA elections Faruque Hassan apprised Ambassador Christian Brix Møller of BGMEA’s strategic vision to elevate the RMG industry’s position in the global market through product diversification, innovation, efficiency improvement, and skill development, with a paramount focus on sustainability. He urged the Danish envoy to facilitate collaboration between BGMEA University of Fashion and Technology (BUFT) and leading Danish fashion institutes to enhance students’ knowledge and skills in key areas such as product and design development, along with the latest manufacturing technologies. BGMEA partners with Manabik Shahajya Sangstha to provide eye care services to garment workers The meeting was attended by Shams Mahmud, Chair, BGMEA Standing Committee on Foreign Mission Cell, Mohammed Kamal, Chair of BGMEA Standing Committee on Trade Fair, and Sanjay Kumar Naha, Director, Rose Intimates Limited. Saadia Taufiq Sadi, Senior Trade Adviser, and Ali Asraf Khan, Supply Chain Specialist, from the Danish Embassy in Dhaka, were also present at the meeting.

A delegation from China, comprising representatives from the China Knitting Industrial Association and the China Cotton Textile Association, visited the Bangladesh Garment Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BGMEA) on Monday. The visit aimed at exploring potential collaboration, particularly in the textile and apparel sector to derive mutual trade benefits. The Chinese delegation included Lin Yunfeng, chairman of China Knitting Industrial Association, Jing Shenquan, vice chairman of China Cotton Textile Association, and Wei Wei, vice director of the Department of China Knitting Industrial Association. FBCCI president meets with finance minister, wants prices to remain stable during Ramadan Besides, representatives from various Chinese companies specializing in textile machinery, chemicals, and raw materials were also part of the delegation. During the visit, they met with BGMEA leaders including President Faruque Hassan, Senior Vice President S. M. Mannan (Kochi), Vice President Shahidullah Azim, and Vice President (Finance) Khandoker Rafiqul Islam. BGMEA Directors Faisal Samad, Haroon Ar Rashid, Barrister Vidiya Amrit Khan, Md. Imranur Rahman, and Neela Hosna Ara were also present in the meeting. Islami Bank holds 2-day Business Development Conference They discussed trade and investment opportunities, fostering collaboration, and expanding business scope between Bangladesh and China in the textile and apparel sector. BGMEA President Faruque Hassan gave an overview of Bangladesh’s apparel industry, especially its strong emphasis on shift towards manufacturing high-value products, particularly man-made fiber-based garments. He sought China’s investment in high-end textile and backward linkage industries in Bangladesh that would bring benefits to both sides. He also emphasized China’s support in enhancing capabilities through the exchange of knowledge and technical expertise. Titu affirms commitment to export diversification; calls on EU, UK to invest in jute, leather sectors He said the shift to non-cotton apparel would lead to an increase in demand for man-made fiber-based fabrics, chemicals, and other raw materials, and China is well-positioned to meet Bangladesh’s requirements. President Faruque Hassan also highlighted the high potential for garment exports from Bangladesh to China.

Faruque Hassan, president of the Bangladesh Garment Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BGMEA), has called upon students to prepare themselves as responsible and compassionate individuals ready to make a positive impact on the world. “Pursue excellence, embrace challenges, and create your path with determination and passion. As you embark on this exciting journey, remember that the choices you make today will shape the person you become tomorrow,” he said. RANGS eMART launches “Daikin AC- A global leader in air conditioning technology.”  The BGMEA chief was speaking at an orientation proramme organised by the Independent University of Bangladesh (IUB) for the freshers. He also highlighted the disparity between classroom education and real-world performance. Faruque Hassan stressed the significance of practical experiences, internships, and interactions with professionals in the students’ respective fields of interest. 80 percent of brokerage houses struggling Real-life training and industry orientation programmes, he said, are vital in narrowing this gap. Highlighting the immense contributions of the ready-made garment industry and its ongoing developments, President Faruque urged the students to play a crucial role in portraying the true image of the industry. Inviting them to visit garment factories, he said, “Explore our factories to witness firsthand how the industry transforms lives and contributes to the economy.” He also invited the students to visit the BGMEA Complex, exploring its initiatives in R&D, circularity, sustainability, market promotion, and design development, contributing to the advancement of the RMG industry. Uniqlo sues Shein over alleged copy of its popular ‘Mary Poppins bag’ “Your time at the university is not just about earning a degree; it’s a transformative period that shapes your character and broadens your horizons,” Faruque Hassan said. Didar A Husain, chairman of the Board of Trustees, IUB; Professor Tanweer Hasan, vice chancellor of the university; Prof. Niaz Ahmed Khan, pro-vice chancellor, Khandker Md Iftekhar Haider, treasurer of IUB were also present at the event.

Faruque Hassan, President of the Bangladesh Garment Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BGMEA), has stressed the importance of creating educated and skilled human resources out of the underprivileged children and enabling them to participate in mainstream development. “A large of number of underprivileged children still remains out of formal education. We have to ensure education for them to break the cycle of poverty for these children and turn them into asset for the country,” he said. 10,500 HSC, equivalent examinees to get scholarship: DSHE The BGMEA president highlighted the significance of investing in education and skills development programs to equip less privileged children with the knowledge and skills necessary to secure employment and thus contribute to the economic development of Bangladesh, said a press release issued on Tuesday. During his visit to the Shishukanon Pre-primary School in Saidpur today, which is established and operated by Manabik Shahajya Sangstha (MSS) for the children of disadvantaged people, Faruque highlighted the significance of investing in education and skills development programs. Secondary schools can be shut if temperature drops below 10 C: DSHE Director of Giant Group Sharmeen Hassan Tithi was also present during the visit. The aim is to equip less privileged children with the knowledge and skills essential for securing employment, thereby contributing to the economic development of Bangladesh. He spent time with the students of the school encouraging them to pursue education diligently. He presented the students with educational materials, foods and toys and assured of his assistance in the future. Nowfel wants new unis to refrain from running undergraduate courses at start of journey The BGMEA President urged the affluent community to come forward and extend a helping hand in providing education for the underprivileged. Collective efforts can play a pivotal role in shaping a brighter future for these children and, consequently, the nation, he added.

Bangladesh has retained the status of the top exporter of garment items in the UK market in consideration of quantity in the period of January–October 2023. Bangladesh Garment Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BGMEA) revealing the UK’s import data showed Bangladesh exported 178.39 million kilogrammes (kgs) of garment items to the UK while China shipped 159.25 million kg. In this regard, BGMEA President Faruque Hassan told UNB that considering the performance of the UK sourcing countries, China is at the top. It is followed by Bangladesh, Turkey, India, and Pakistan. Bangladesh had secured its position as the top garment supplier in Europe in terms of volume (quantity) in 2022. Milestone for RMG as Bangladesh becomes top source of Knitwear into EU market “Our position in the UK market remains the same because, in 2022, the UK's imports from Bangladesh exceeded imports from China, and this trend continues in the first 10 months of 2023,” he said. However, Bangladesh's share of the UK's total apparel imports is 23 percent in terms of value and 28 percent in terms of volume, said Faruque. “So far, we have been able to secure our position through potential cost savings, timely product delivery, and maintaining quality, which has kept us ahead of the competition in the fashion world,” said BGMEA President. Govt announces Tk 12,500 as minimum salary for RMG workers He said that the UK market still has opportunities as they approach the saturation point, and the global trade policy and competitive landscape will change over the coming decades. The key to capturing more global market share and sustaining growth will be to shift to higher-value products and higher-value markets by acquiring capabilities in backward and forward linkage industries. Bangladesh can add higher value by moving into the mid-high price segment of the market, where a T-shirt or a polo shirt can fetch higher FOB revenue only because of the complex process (e.g., advanced fabrication, embroidery, printing, even functionality), he said. Incidentally, it would also like to mention that, considering the average price of UK apparel imports, Bangladesh offers the lowest price compared to other competitors. “Our average price is 21.39 percent lower than China, 32 percent lower than Turkey, and even 26.75 percent lower than India. This not only proves that we are not competitive in the global market, but at the same time, our absence in the mid-high price segment of the market is starkly evident. At this point, we need to strategise to capture the mid-high price segment to take the industry forward,” said BGMEA President. Despite anticipated challenges in 2024, int’l market demand for RMG products could rise: BGMEA Director  END/UNB/AI/MB/JA